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Why we like it: We like that the ad attempts to break down the stereotype that young drivers are reckless, listen to ‘S8tan FM’, text and wolf down burgers as they drive (perhaps the latter is true). It’s nice to see a company talking to young people like adults instead of treating them like pesky millennials. The pictorial, cartoon style is also pretty cool and we like that it’s face-paced and engaging.

Who’s it for: Ranga alcoholic ginger beer by Unitec students

Why we like it: What’s not to like? Apart from the fact that it might be a tad offensive to those of a red-headed disposition (or empowering, depending on how you look at it), the ad is funny, quirky, retro and rather filmic. There are some great shots, a cool soundtrack and the concept of Rangaman fits well with Ranga’s brand identity, of not taking itself too seriously and, of course, embracing the colour orange.

Why we like it: Firstly, the kid is pretty cute and he busts some great moves. The soundtrack is upbeat and an instinctive foot-tapper, the boy is wearing an ultra-cool shark fin and the dusky setting is also quite dreamy. It’s nice to see a travel company steering away from romantic couples walking on white sand alongside a clear-watered beach and focussing instead on an awkward but confident kid (who enjoys holidays just as much as the romantic couple) and who might just grow up to be Napoleon Dynamite. It's refreshing.

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23 years ago I did an interactive promotion with James Kwok at Saatchis for Bluebird potato chips on TV2 at 7.30 pm. Two years later I was doing websites for the likes of Sun Direct Insurance and more with Howdo. ...

Congrats on 25 years Simon - since leaving the industry 11 years ago (!) I've looked on at FCB doing some great work. Good luck with the future - I can thoroughly recommend life after advertising. Cheers Brett Atkinson

Simon - You have been a wonderful servant to the industry and in recent years to FCB. I do recall quite some years ago in a short time working together- probably in your first 5 and nearing my 20th - ...

This is the thread that keeps on giving! I'm no PR guru, but perhaps someone from Google NZ should post a contact number on this article, for all the random disgruntled folk who are trying to find them? That, or ...

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Why we like it: While a carol by Ronan Keating gets the Christmas feels going, it's great to see Julian Dennison put Keating in his place to make sure the tune is true to New Zealand. It's not a Kiwi summer without glistening bros, prickles and popping the plug out of your jandals. And this spot definitely gets bonus points for the showcasing what is truly meme-worthy face of 'Sad Ronan', as he sulks on the kerb. No doubt this ad will be making its way across the airwaves all Christmas.

Who's it for: Rebel Sport by Ogilvy

Why we like it: This video featuring Eric Thomas, an American motivational speaker, author and minister, follows on from an earlier Rebel Sport ad that uses Thomas to tell the story of All Black Malakai Fekitoa. That ad asked athletes to find their 'why', and now Thomas is back to tell athletes why their 'why' is so important. "Look around your own environment and whose life would be better off if your life was great?" he asks audiences before delving into his own past to show the importance of his 'why'. Thomas engages viewers from the start, and the pairing of his message with images of athletes giving it their all makes for a powerful spot that can't be ignored.

Who's it for: BNZ by Krunch

Why we like it: Contactless payment is nothing new and mobile payment has also been seen before in ANZ's Apple Pay, but this ad rises to the challenge of reintroducing it in an exciting way. Not only does the cute dog do the job successfully, the supporting videos use a baby, a rugby ball and jandals to make the payments. While we don't expect to see anyone whipping those out of their handbags or back pockets to pay for Christmas shopping, the proposed methods show BNZ customers who don't have an Android phone that there are other options for them.

Who's it for: Sky by DDB and Flying Fish

Why we like it: While Sky's programme offering covers more than just sport, the tension and elation when watching a game is something many Kiwis can relate to. And in this spot, Sky takes centre stage as the deliverer of the anxiety, ecstasy and camaraderie that comes with watching the big game. It certainly serves as a compelling reminder that Sky remains the go-to place for New Zealand's most popular sports.